A helping hand to young Aussies looking for a career in Ag

The pilot program offers applicants aged 18 to 25 the opportunity to have a practical placement on a farm over a 10-month to 12-month period. Photo: SUPPLIED

THE agricultural industry is struggling to find workers, especially those with the knowledge and passion to make a go of it on the land.

It’s not for everyone and the hours and pay do not reflect that of heavy industry, which is draining the labour pool through big buck incentives.

But for those who love the land and the lifestyle it offers, Ag can be a very rewarding career and be the foot in the door to running your own operation.

The federal government has committed further funding to help young Aussies seeking careers in the agriculture industry through the AgCAREERSTART pilot program.

The pilot program provides on-the-job experience, offering successful applicants aged 18 to 25 the opportunity to have a practical placement on a farm over a 10-month to 12-month period.

So far, the AgCAREERSTART pilot program has provided 180 young people with experience working in agriculture in the early part of their careers.

The pilot program provides on-the-job training, free lodging with the host farm, a development grant and the opportunity to build strong relationships within the industry.

Deputy secretary of agriculture, fisheries and forestry policy Matthew Lowe said the program is a fantastic initiative that connects farmers with individuals seeking career pathways in the sector.

“The pilot program has been valuable for employers and participants with 82 per cent of participants completing their placement,” Mr Lowe said.

”A high percentage of them (80 per cent), also indicated they will stay on in the agriculture sector following their time with the program.

”The agricultural sector is on track to being an $100 billion industry by 2030. To reach this goal, it is vital that we have a pipeline of young, motivated Australians in this space.”

The AgCAREERSTART pilot program connects young like-minded people together, creating strong relationships and networking opportunities for participants.

Agriculture has so many career pathways, from animal husbandry, developing and operating state-of-the-art machinery and technology, to business, marketing and STEM research and analysis.

For further information on the AgCAREERSTART pilot program, head to agcareerstart.com.au